Plastics; plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of polyurethanes, cellular

HS code 392113 covers the production and trade of cellular polyurethane plastics in the form of plates, sheets, film, foil, and strip. This industry plays a crucial role in the broader plastics and chemicals sector, providing essential materials for a wide range of applications across various industries. Polyurethane cellular products are valued for their unique properties, such as lightweight, insulation, and cushioning, making them indispensable in sectors like construction, automotive, and packaging.

The production of cellular polyurethane plastics under HS code 392113 typically involves a multi-step process. First, the base polyurethane resin is formulated by combining polyols and isocyanates. This mixture is then subjected to a foaming process, where a blowing agent is introduced to create the cellular structure. The foamed material is then extruded or molded into the desired shapes and dimensions, such as sheets, films, or strips. Careful control of the foaming and shaping processes is essential to ensure the desired physical properties and quality of the final products.

The main inputs required for the production of cellular polyurethane plastics under HS code 392113 include polyols, isocyanates, and blowing agents. Polyols, such as polyether or polyester polyols, provide the base for the polyurethane resin. Isocyanates, such as toluene diisocyanate (TDI) or methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), react with the polyols to form the polyurethane polymer. Blowing agents, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) or carbon dioxide, are used to create the cellular structure. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized machinery and equipment for the foaming, extrusion, and molding processes.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 392113 are cellular polyurethane products in the form of plates, sheets, film, foil, and strip. These materials are widely used in various applications, including 392112 Plastics; plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of polymers of vinyl chloride, non-cellular, 392119 Plastics; plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics, n.e.c. in heading no. 3921, and 392190 Plastics; plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics, n.e.c. in chapter 39. The cellular structure of these polyurethane products makes them particularly suitable for insulation, cushioning, and packaging applications across industries such as construction, automotive, and consumer goods.